Meet New Books

Books Like...

A deliciously messy, dark romance packed with angst, drama, and complicated characters - riveting for fans of the genre, but definitely not for the faint of heart!

If you liked The Kiss Thief, here are the top 100 books to read next:

Page 1
Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    Sparrow by L.J. Shen
    Save:

    A dark, addictive mafia romance packed with twists, angst, and sizzling chemistry. Perfect if you love flawed antiheroes and tension-filled love stories - but tread carefully if you prefer sweetness and light.

    Sparrow by L.J. Shen is an intense and gripping standalone novel that delves into the arranged marriage between Sparrow, the main heroine, and Troy Brennan, a ruthless and dangerous man from the Irish mafia. The story unfolds with Sparrow being kidnapped by Troy and forced into a marriage, leading to a complex and tumultuous relationship filled with darkness, secrets, and unexpected twists. The author's writing style is described as addictive, daring, and different, with a focus on psychological depth, alternating points of view, and a continuous flow of suspense, violence, and romance.

    “IS IT POSSIBLE TO feel your heart breaking, even if you’ve never fallen in love?” I stared back at the woman in the mirror, chewing on my lower lip until the tender flesh cracked. I looked like a str...
    March 2016
    324 pages

  2. #2
    Vicious
    by: 
    Book 1 in the series:Sinners of Saint

    Vicious - Sinners of Saint by L.J. Shen
    Save:

    Vicious is an angsty, addictive enemies-to-lovers romance with a polarizing bad boy and captivating heroine - perfect for readers who crave intensity, drama, and deeply flawed love stories.

    'Vicious' by L.J. Shen is a gripping tale that delves into the complex relationship between Barron Vicious Spencer and Emilia. Shen skillfully reveals the past history between the characters, keeping readers guessing and engaged throughout the story. The writing style is described as intense, with a mix of 18-year-old and 28-year-old perspectives, creating a captivating narrative that explores unresolved issues from the characters' past.

    MY GRANDMAMA ONCE TOLD ME that love and hate are the same feelings experienced under different circumstances. The passion is the same. The pain is the same. That weird thing that bubbles in your chest...
    December 2016
    374 pages

  3. #3
    The Villain
    by: 
    Book 2 in the series:Boston Belles

    The Villain - Boston Belles by L.J. Shen
    Save:

    A page-turning angsty romance with polarizing characters - either you'll swoon and ache for Cillian and Persephone, or you'll be shouting at them. Perfect for fans of deep emotional journeys, but not for those who need their love stories light and tidy.

    'The Villain' by L.J. Shen is a dark romance novel that explores the complex relationship between the main characters, Cillian and Persephone. The story delves into themes of love, betrayal, and redemption, with Cillian initially portrayed as the villain but revealing a more nuanced character as the plot unfolds. The book features a mix of intense emotions, sizzling chemistry between the protagonists, and a plot that keeps readers engaged till the end.

    The narrative style of 'The Villain' is characterized by its intricate character development and intricate plot twists. Readers are drawn into a world where the lines between hero and villain blur, leaving them questioning the true nature of the characters. Shen's writing captures the dark and intense atmosphere of the story, creating a gripping read that explores themes of power dynamics, loyalty, and the complexities of human relationships.

    I said a silent prayer they’d stay on the street until I made it safely to my building. I hated coming home late but couldn’t say no to the babysitting gig I’d been offered after school hours. Collect...
    December 2020
    421 pages

  4. #4

    Bound by Honor - Born in Blood Mafia Chronicles by Cora Reilly
    Save:

    Classic mafia romance - dramatic, dark, and addictive. Not for everyone, but if you like flawed characters and angsty arranged marriages, it's totally binge-worthy.

    "Bound by Honor" in the series 'Born in Blood Mafia Chronicles' by author Cora Reilly follows the story of Aria, a young girl who is part of an arranged marriage between two powerful mob families. The plot delves into the complexities of mafia life, arranged marriages, alpha male characters, and the struggles faced by women in this world. The writing style captures the intense dynamics between the characters, showcasing themes of protectiveness, possessiveness, and the unexpected emotional depth within the relationships.

    portrays a gritty and raw depiction of mafia life, exploring the contrast between the characters' roles as murderers, fathers, bosses, and monsters. Despite the dark themes, the story focuses on character development, relationships, and the realities of their lives, presenting a nuanced portrayal of the challenges and complexities faced by the characters in the mafia world.

    I was curled up on the chaise lounge in our library, reading, when a knock sounded. Liliana’s head rested in my lap, and she didn’t even stir when the dark wooden door opened and our mother stepped in...
    2014
    291 pages

  5. #5

    Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
    Save:

    A 90s romance classic packed with drama, angst, and heart - a flawed, addictive ride perfect for lovers of grovel-heavy, opposites-attract stories, but not for those sensitive to old-school tropes or harsh heroes.

    Daisy Devreaux, a young woman facing jail time due to her financial mistakes, finds herself in an arranged marriage with a mysterious man named Alex Markoff. Despite their initial clashes, Daisy and Alex navigate their unconventional relationship while working for a circus. The story unfolds with themes of redemption, growth, and the complexities of love, set against a backdrop of circus life and characterized by emotional depth and humor.

    She caught her bottom lip between her teeth. Her father had introduced them several days ago, that terrible morning the three of them had gone to get the marriage license, and she’d heard the name the...
    January 1996
    384 pages

  6. #6
    The Hunter
    by: 
    Book 1 in the series:Boston Belles

    The Hunter - Boston Belles by L.J. Shen
    Save:

    A fun, sexy, and surprisingly heartfelt enemies-to-lovers romance - with a charmingly flawed hero, a strong heroine, and all the sizzle you expect from LJ Shen. Not her most gut-wrenching, but a great jumping-in point for new readers and a promising start to a fresh series.

    'The Hunter' by L.J. Shen is a enemies-to-lovers romance novel that follows the story of Hunter Fitzpatrick, a playboy billionaire who must give up his wild lifestyle after a scandal involving a sex tape. To keep him in line, his father hires Sailor Brennan, a determined and career-driven archer aiming for the Olympics, to watch over him. As Hunter and Sailor navigate their complicated relationship, they both undergo personal growth and development, forming an unexpected bond that leads to a deep connection. The plot is filled with twists, banter, and emotional moments, showcasing the evolution of the characters and their relationship in a steamy and addictive manner.

    May 2020
    394 pages

  7. #7

    Virtue & Vanity by Astrid Jane Ray
    Save:

    A dark and dramatic read packed with gut-wrenching angst, heavy trigger warnings, but powerful themes of redemption and forgiveness. Not for everyone, but highly recommended if you crave intense, emotional slow-burn romance and aren't afraid of taboo territory.

    'Virtue & Vanity' by Astrid Jane Ray is a captivating and emotional story that delves into the complexities of relationships, forgiveness, and redemption. The plot revolves around the intense interactions between the characters, particularly Isabelle and Sebastian, as they navigate through dark and tragic events that shape their lives. The writing style is described as reminiscent of older styles, with a focus on first-person narrative that vividly portrays the characters' emotions and inner thoughts. explores themes of abuse, trauma, love, and second chances, creating a compelling and thought-provoking narrative.

    The light from the computer screen glowed on my tired eyes, but I was determined to keep on typing. The story I had replayed in my mind for months had to come to the surface, and I was so inspired tha...
    February 2016
    528 pages

  8. #8
    The Darkest Temptation
    Book 3 in the series:Made

    The Darkest Temptation - Made by Danielle Lori
    Save:

    A deliciously dark, twisty mafia romance brimming with angst, sharp dialogue, and sizzling chemistry - perfect for fans of the genre, but definitely check trigger warnings before diving in.

    "The Darkest Temptation" by Danielle Lori, part of the 'Made' series, follows the story of Mila, a sheltered and naive young woman who embarks on a journey to Russia in search of answers, defying her father's warnings. In Moscow, she encounters danger and intrigue, especially when she crosses paths with Ronan, a dark and complex character with whom she forms a deep connection. The book delves into themes of love, betrayal, redemption, and self-discovery, all set against the backdrop of the Bratva in Moscow. The writing style is described as engrossing, dark, and humorous, with layered characters and a plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

    Breath ragged from the run, I dropped my heels on the grass and padded barefoot across our manicured lawn, not stopping until I’d climbed onto the rocky embankment and felt the cool waves lapping at m...
    December 2020
    409 pages

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Made )

  9. #9
    Angry God
    by: 
    Book 3 in the series:All Saints High

    Angry God - All Saints High by L.J. Shen
    Save:

    "Angry God" is a dark, compulsive read packed with angst and broken characters, but its graphic depiction of trauma and problematic relationship dynamics make it a love-it-or-hate-it experience - read with caution and don't skip those trigger warnings.

    In "Angry God," Lenora and Vaughn navigate a complex relationship that starts from vulnerability rather than trust. Lenora's strength and determination shine through as she stands up for herself and refuses to let bullying ruin her reputation. Vaughn, a misunderstood character with intimacy issues, reveals a vulnerable side as he and Lenora connect on a deeper level. The plot unfolds with elements of romance, revenge, and family dynamics, set against a backdrop of a prestigious English boarding school.

    The writing style in "Angry God" is described as intense and enjoyable, with a plot that is both intriguing and predictable at times. Characters like Vaughn and Lenora are depicted as flawed yet compelling, with their growth and revelations forming a central part of the story. Themes of love, trauma, and personal struggles are interwoven into the narrative, showcasing the complexities of relationships and the impact of past experiences on the characters' present actions.

    People said Carlisle was one of the most haunted castles in Britain. The 17th-century fort was supposedly the home of two ghosts. The first had been spotted by a footman who’d been locked in the cella...
    February 2020

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series All Saints High )

  10. #10
    A Vow Of Hate
    Book 1 in the series:A Vow of Hate

    A Vow Of Hate - A Vow of Hate by Lylah James
    Save:

    A wild, emotionally charged ride that’s perfect for fans of dramatic, moody romance with genuine depth. Not always comfortable, but impossible to put down once you’re in.

    'A Vow Of Hate' by Lylah James is an emotional rollercoaster filled with angst, mystery, hidden secrets, and ultimately love. Readers are taken on a journey where the plot unfolds slowly but intriguingly, leading to unexpected twists and turns. The characters, especially the heroine Julianna and the hero Killian, are complex and flawed, making their love story chaotic, painful, and full of unspoken truths. The writing style of Lylah James is described as emotionally intense, gripping, and filled with palpable chemistry between the characters.

    And Selene was the only face I saw everyday. Her presence and the only human contact I had since I woke up from the coma and was brought back to my father’s estate, kept what was left of my sanity int...
    January 2021
    433 pages

Page 1 of 10Next Page